Rite and Dick Rountree: The Chesapeake Residents
Dick and Rite Rountree: Enjoying the good life.
Dick Rountree happily declares that life at The Chesapeake is “a lazy, nice life.” But one look at his calendar—and that of his wife, Rite—will let you know that this couple and their lifestyle are active, independent, and energetic.
Always on the go, Rite volunteers at her local church, as well as in The Chesapeake’s gift shop. She plays duplicate bridge, swims at least once a week, works out in the fitness center, and serves on The Chesapeake’s Hospitality Committee. “I’m always surprised to see all the new things people are doing here,” she exclaims, noting the impressively wide array of activities that residents take part in — from art classes, musical performances, and educational talks, to fitness classes, day trips, and longer excursions.
With so much going on, Rite says she’s very happy that The Chesapeake’s senior apartments, service and amenities, and health care are all under one roof. “I can walk everywhere inside; I’m never isolated in my home. When the weather’s bad, I can go to the dining room, to the pool, or to visit a friend without ever having to get wet or hot or cold outside.”
For his part, Dick serves on The Chesapeake’s Buildings and Grounds Committee. He also enjoys playing tennis, walking, volunteering at his local church, and simply taking it easy. “The social life here is nice. We enjoy eating with other couples. The people here just really are so nice.”
The couple made the decision to move to The Chesapeake after observing Rite’s mother and the secure lifestyle she enjoyed at a CCRC (continuing care retirement community) in Tennessee. They were attracted not only to the worry-free lifestyle and the abundance of choices in activities and programming, but also to the peace of mind afforded by knowing that a full continuum of healthcare services is available if needed. They remember how much easier it was for them, knowing that Rite’s mother was being well taken care of. When it came time to plan for their own retirement, Dick says, “Rite was tired of cooking and I was tired of taking care of the yard. Plus, we didn’t want to burden our children as we got older.”
Rite echoes Dick’s sentiment: “I think people should move in while they’re still able to make their own decisions. Plus, if you wait too long, you’ll miss all the fun!”
So with so much going on, why does Dick describe the lifestyle as “lazy”? That’s easy. The only thing he and Rite have to do is whatever it is they want to do.